Bolens 12A-A26M565 Owner's manual

Brand: Bolens

Model: 12A-A26M565

Category: Lawnmowers

Type: Owner's manual

Printed In USA

o p e r a t o r ’s m a n u a l

Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty

WARNING

READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL

BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE.

FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.

P. O. Box 1386, 97 Kent Avenue, KITCHENER, ONTARIO, CANADA N2G 4J1

Self-Propelled Mower — Model Series A00, A10, A20, & B20

769-06696

11. 2 2.10

To The Owner

Safe Operation Practices ........................................ 3

Assembly & Set-Up .................................................. 9

Controls & Features ................................................13

Operation ................................................................14

Maintenance & Adjustment..................................15

Service .....................................................................17

Troubleshooting .....................................................18

Replacement Parts .................................................19

Warranty ................................................................ 20

Table of Contents

Record Product Information

Before setting up and operating your new equipment, please

locate the model plate on the equipment and record the

information in the provided area to the right. You can locate the

model plate by standing at the operating position and looking

down at the rear of the machine. This information will be

necessary, should you seek technical support via our web site or

with your local dealer.

Mo d e l Nu M b e r

Se r i a l Nu M b e r

Thank you for purchasing your new equipment. It was carefully

engineered to provide excellent performance when properly

operated and maintained.

Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment.

It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate and

maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other

persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow the

recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could

result in personal injury or property damage.

All information in this manual is relative to the most recent

product information available at the time of printing. Review

this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine,

its features and operation. Please be aware that this Operator’s

Manual may cover a range of product specifications for

various models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or

illustrated in this manual may not be applicable to all models.

The manufacturer reserves the right to change product

specifications, designs and equipment without notice and

without incurring obligation.

If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine,

phone your local service dealer or contact us directly. Customer

Support telephone numbers, website address and mailing

address can be found on this page. We want to ensure your

complete satisfaction at all times.

Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the

machine are observed from the operating position.

The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related

issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifications,

warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s

Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, packed separately with your

machine, for more information.

Thank You

Customer Support

Please do

NOT

return the unit to the retailer from which it was purchased, without first contacting Customer Support.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of

this machine, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:

Visit our web at www.bolens.ca◊

Locate your nearest dealer from Customer Support: 1-800-668-1238◊

Contact MTD CANADA • P.O. Box 1386 • 97 Kent Avenue • Kitchener, Ontario, Canada • N2G 4J1◊

Important Safe Operation Practices

General Operation

Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety before 1.

attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand,

and follow all instructions on the machine and in the

manuals) before operation. Keep this manual in a safe

place for future and regular reference and for ordering

replacement parts.

Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use 2.

of this machine before operating it.

This machine is a precision piece of power equipment, 3.

not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all

times. This machine has been designed to perform one job:

to mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.

Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this 4.

machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand

the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual

and on the machine and should be trained and supervised

by an adult.

Only responsible individuals who are familiar with these 5.

rules of safe operation should be allowed to use this

machine.

Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be 6.

used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and other

foreign objects, which could be tripped over or picked up

and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can cause serious

personal injury.

Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material 7.

toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also,

avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction,

which may cause discharged material to ricochet back

toward the operator.

To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, 8.

stay in operator zone behind handles and keep children,

bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet from mower

while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters area.

Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during 9.

operation and while performing an adjustment or repair

to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can

cause serious injury to the eyes.

Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting 10.

slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms

and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never

operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light-

weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.

Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the 11.

cutting deck. Contact with blade can amputate fingers,

hands, toes and feet.

WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed,

could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow

all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply

with these instructions may result in personal injury.

When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING!

WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components

contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or

other reproductive harm.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead

compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive

harm. Wash hands after handling.

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in

this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the

operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating fingers, hands,

toes and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could

result in serious injury or death.

A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade 12.

contact or thrown object injuries.

Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled 13.

over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.

Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the

handle immediately.

Never pull the mower back toward you while you are 14.

walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or

obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping

and then follow these steps:

Step back from mower to fully extend your arms.a.

Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.b.

Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way c.

toward you.

Repeat these steps as needed.d.

Do not operate the mower while under the influence of 15.

alcohol or drugs.

Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on machines 16.

so equipped while starting engine.

The blade control handle is a safety device. Never attempt 17.

to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device

inoperative and may result in personal injury through

contact with the rotating blade. The blade control handle

must operate easily in both directions and automatically

return to the disengaged position when released.

Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of 18.

your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal

injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the

blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop

rotating within three seconds.

Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never 19.

run.

Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.20.

If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop 21.

the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration

is generally a warning of trouble.

Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to 22.

a complete stop before removing the grass catcher or

unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to

rotate for a few seconds after the blade control is released.

Never place any part of the body in the blade area until you

are sure the blade has stopped rotating.

Never operate mower without proper trail shield, discharge 23.

cover, grass catcher, blade control handle or other safety

protective devices in place and working. Never operate

mower with damaged safety devices. Failure to do so can

result in personal injury.

Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do 24.

not touch.

Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height 25.

adjustment while the engine is running.

Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by 26.

the manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal

injury.

When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance 27.

is felt, then pull rapidly. Rapid retraction of starter cord

(kickback) will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than

you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises or sprains

could result.

If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, 28.

use care and good judgement. Contact Customer Support

for assistance or the name of the nearest service dealer.

Slope Operation

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which

can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes requires extra

caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your

safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to

measure slopes before operating this machine on a sloped or

hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.

Do:

Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise 1.

extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps 2.

which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide

obstacles.

Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause 3.

serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your

balance, release the blade control handle immediately and

the blade will stop rotating within three (3) seconds.

Do Not:

Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you 1.

could lose your footing or balance.

Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on 2.

the slope gauge.

Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause 3.

slipping.

Children

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the

presence of children. Children are often attracted to the mower

and the mowing activity. They do not understand the dangers.

Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

Keep children out of the mowing area and under watchful 1.

care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.2.

Before and while moving backwards, look behind and 3.

down for small children.

Use extreme care when approaching blind corners, 4.

doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure

your vision of a child who may run into the mower.

Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can 5.

suffer burns from a hot muffler.

Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this 6.

machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand

the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual

and on the machine and be trained and supervised by an

adult.

Service

Safe Handling Of Gasoline:

To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme 1.

care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable

and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can

occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes,

which can ignite. Wash your skin and change clothes

immediately.

Use only an approved gasoline container.2.

Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer 3.

bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the

ground away from your vehicle before filling.

Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or 4.

trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible,

then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable

container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or 5.

container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do

not use a nozzle lock-open device.

Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources 6.

of ignition.

Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors will 7.

accumulate in the area.

Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or 8.

running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before

refueling.

Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than 1 inch 9.

below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.

Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.10.

If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment. 11.

Move machine to another area. Wait 5 minutes before

starting engine.

Never store the machine or fuel container near an open 12.

flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space

heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances.

To reduce fire hazard, keep machine free of grass, leaves, 13.

or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and

remove any fuel soaked debris.

Allow machine to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.14.

General Service:

Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. 1.

Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless

and deadly gas.

Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the 2.

blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the

spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent

unintended starting.

Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent 3.

intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade

for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade with

the original equipment manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only,

listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the

original equipment specifications may lead to improper

performance and compromise safety!”

Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or 4.

wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the 5.

equipment is in safe working condition.

Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper 6.

operation regularly.

After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect 7.

the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.

Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the

damage before starting and operating the mower.

Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height 8.

adjustment while the engine is running.

Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail shield 9.

are subject to wear and damage which could expose

moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For safety

protection, frequently check components and replace

immediately with original equipment manufacturer’s

(O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts

which do not meet the original equipment specifications

may lead to improper performance and compromise

safety!”

Do not change the engine’s governor setting or over-speed 10.

the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe

operating speed of the engine.

Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks 11.

or leaks. Replace if necessary.

Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.12.

Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as 13.

necessary.

Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper 14.

disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission 15.

(CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),

this product has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years,

or 140 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful

Life have the machine inspected annually by an authorized

service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety

systems are working properly and not worn excessively.

Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.

Do not modify engine

To avoid serious injury or death, do not modify engine in any

way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway

engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper

with factory setting of engine governor.

Notice Regarding Emissions

Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal

EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment)

are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and

may include the following emission control systems: Engine

Modification (EM), Oxidizing Catalyst (OC), Secondary Air

Injection (SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

Spark Arrestor

WARNING: This machine is equipped with an

internal combustion engine and should not be used

on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush

covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s

exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester

meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).

If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective

working order by the operator.

A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest

engine authorized service dealer.

WARNING: Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and

follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

Safety Symbols

This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the

machine before attempting to assemble and operate.

Symbol Description

READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S)

Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to

assemble and operate

DANGER — ROTATING BLADES

To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away. Do not operate unless discharge cover

or grass catcher is in its proper place. If damaged, replace immediately.

DANGER — BYSTANDERS

Do not mow when children or others are around.

DANGER — HAND/ FOOT CUT

Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.

DANGER — THROWN DEBRIS

Remove objects that can be thrown by the blade in any direction. Wear safety glasses.

DANGER — SLOPES

Use extra caution on slopes. Do not mow slopes greater than 15°.

WARNING—GASOLINE IS FLAMMABLE

Allow the engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.

WARNING— CARBON MONOXIDE

Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon

monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.

WARNING— HOT SURFACE

Engine parts, especially the muffler, become extremely hot during operation. Allow engine

and muffler to cool before touching.

Sight and hold this level with a vertical tree...

or a corner of a building...

or a fence post

Fold along dotted line (represents a 15° slope)

15°

Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely.

WARNING: Do not operate your lawn mower on such slopes. Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees

(a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. Operate riding

mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes. Operate walk-behind mowers across the face of slopes, never

up and down slopes.

Assembly & Set-Up

While stabilizing mower so it doesn’t move, pivot b.

upper handle up as shown in Fig. 3-2. Do not crimp

cable while lifting the handle up.

NOTE: Please be aware that this Operator’s Manual covers both

the low and high wheel models of this mower. While this manual

illustrates the low wheel model, the instructions and features

are equally applicable to the high wheel model as well, unless

otherwise noted.

Assembly

NOTE: This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine.

Fill up with gasoline and oil as instructed in the accompanying

engine manual BEFORE operating your mower.

Handle

Remove any packing material which may be between 1.

upper and lower handles.

Remove wing nuts and carriage bolts from handle as a.

shown in Fig. 3-1. Do not loosen or remove adjacent

hex head screws.

Contents of Carton

One Lawn Mower• One Grass Catcher†• One Bottle of Oil•

One Lawn Mower Operator’s Manual• One Engine Operator’s Manual• One Side Discharge Chute†•

Figure 3-1

Figure 3-2

† If Equipped

10 se c t i o n 3 — as s e m b l y & se t -up

The rope guide is attached to the right side of the upper 4.

handle. Loosen the wing knob which secures the rope

guide. See Fig. 3-6.

Hold blade control against upper handle.a.

Slowly pull starter rope handle from engine and slip b.

starter rope into the rope guide. See Fig. 3-6.

Tighten rope guide wing knob.c.

Use cable tie(s) to secure cable(s) to lower handle.d.

Grass Catcher (If Equipped)

Follow steps below to assemble the grass catcher (if 1.

needed). Make certain bag is turned right side out before

assembling (warning label will be on the outside).

Place bag over frame so that its black plastic side is a.

at the bottom.

Remove the T-bolts from the handle brackets as shown in 2.

Fig. 3-3.

Follow the steps below to complete handle assembly:3.

Pull upward on the handle until holes in lower a.

handle (shown in Fig. 3-3 deck cutaway) line up with

holes in handle bracket. See Fig. 3-4.

NOTE: When pulling upward on handle, make sure to not

pull handle all the way out.

Insert the T-bolts removed earlier through the b.

handle brackets and lower handle and tighten

securely to secure the handle in place. See Fig. 3-4.

Reattach wing nuts and carriage bolts removed c.

earlier into lower holes of handle as shown in Fig.

3-5.

Figure 3-5

Figure 3-4

Figure 3-6

Figure 3-3

11se c t i o n 3 — as s e m b l y & se t -up

Side Discharge Chute (If Equipped)

Your mower may be shipped as a mulcher. To convert to side

discharge, make sure grass catcher is off of the unit and rear

discharge door is closed.

On the side of the mower, lift the side mulching plug. See 1.

Figure 3-9.

Slide two hooks of side discharge chute under hinge pin on 2.

mulching plug assembly. Lower the mulching plug. Do not

remove side mulching plug at any time, even when you are

not mulching.

Slip plastic channel of grass bag over hooks on the b.

frame. See Fig. 3-7.

Follow steps below to attach grass catcher:2.

Lift rear discharge door.a.

Place grass catcher into the slots in the handle b.

brackets as shown in Fig. 3-8. Let go of discharge

door so that it rests on the grass catcher.

To remove grass catcher, lift rear discharge door on the mower.

Lift grass catcher up and of the slots in the handle brackets.

Release rear discharge door to allow it to close rear opening of

mower.

Figure 3-8

Figure 3-9

Figure 3-7

Side Mulching

Plug

12 Se c t i o n 3 — AS S e m b l y & Se t -Up

Adjustments

Cutting Height

There is a cutting height adjustment lever located above the

front and rear right wheel.

Pull the height adjustment lever towards wheel (unit will 1.

tend to fall when lever is moved outward).

Move lever to desired position for a change in cutting 2.

height. See Fig. 3-10 and 3-10A.

NOTE: For mowers with low wheels, the height adjustment

levers move in the opposite direction to adjust; for those

with high wheels, the levers move in the same direction.

Release lever towards deck.3.

Low Wheel

Higher

Lower

High Wheel

Lower

Higher

IMPORTANT: Both the front and rear wheels must be

placed in the same relative position. For rough or uneven

lawns, move the height adjustment levers to a higher

position. This will stop scalping of grass.

Handle Pitch (If Equipped)

For convenience of operation, you may be able to adjust the

pitch of the handle as follows:

Remove wing nuts and carriage bolts from handle. See Fig. 1.

3 -11.

Position the handle in one of the three positions that is 2.

most comfortable. See Fig. 3-11 inset.

Secure into position with wing nuts and carriage bolts 3.

removed earlier.

Set-Up

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

Refer to the separate engine owner’s manual for additional

engine information.

Add oil provided before starting unit for the first time out 1.

of the box.

Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the 2.

separate engine owner’s manual.

WARNING: Use extreme care when handling

gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the

vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine

indoors or while the engine is hot or running.

Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other

sources of ignition.

Figure 3-11

Figure 3-10

Figure 3-10A

Controls and Features

Figure 4-1

Blade Control

The blade control is located on the upper handle of the mower.

The blade control must be depressed in order to operate the

unit. Release the blade control to stop the engine and blade.

WARNING: This blade control is a safety device.

Never attempt to bypass its operations.

Drive Control

The drive control is located on the underside of the upper handle

and is used to engage the drive. Squeeze it against the upper

handle to engage the drive; release it to slow down or stop

mower from propelling.

Cutting Height Adjustment Lever

One adjustment lever is located on the right rear wheel and one

is located on the right front wheel. Both levers have to be at the

same relative position to ensure a uniform cut. To adjust the

cutting height, refer to the “Assembly & Set-Up” Section.

Grass Catcher (If Equipped)

The grass catcher, located at the rear of the mower, is used to bag

the grass clippings for disposal at another site. Once the bag is

full, it has to be removed from the mower and emptied before

any further mowing.

Side Discharge Chute (If Equipped)

Your mower is shipped as a mulcher. To discharge the grass

clippings to the side instead, follow the instructions in the

“Assembly & Set-Up” section to attach the side discharge chute.

WARNING: Keep hands and feet away from the

chute area on cutting deck. Refer to warning label

on the unit.

Mulch Plug (If Equipped)

The mulch plug is used for mulching purposes. Instead of

collecting the grass clippings in a grass catcher or using the

side discharge chute, some mower models have the option

of recirculating the clippings back to the lawn. This is called

mulching.

Blade Control

Recoil Starter

Cutting Height

Adjustment

Lever

Cutting Height

Adjustment

Lever

Side Discharge

Chute

Drive Control

Mulch Plug

Grass Catcher

Deck Wash

Operation

Starting & Stopping Engine

Refer to the Engine Operator’s manual packed with your lawn

mower for instructions on starting and stopping the engine.

Using Your Lawn Mower

Be sure lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects

which could damage lawn mower or engine. Such objects could

be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause

serious personal injury to the operator and others.

WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can

result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes,

which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear

safety glasses while operating the mower, or while

performing any adjustments or repairs on it.

Using as Mulcher

For mulching grass, remove the side discharge chute (if

equipped) or the grass catcher (if equipped) and allow the rear

discharge door (if equipped) to close the rear opening of mower.

For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass. If the grass has

been allowed to grow in excess of four inches, mulching is not

recommended. Use the grass catcher to bag clippings instead.

Using Grass Catcher (If Equipped)

You can use the grass catcher to collect clippings while you are

operating the mower.

Attach grass catcher following instructions in the 1.

“Assembly & Set-Up” section. Grass clippings will

automatically collect in bag as you run mower. Operate

mower till grass bag is full.

Stop engine completely by releasing the blade control. 2.

Make sure that the unit has come to a complete stop.

Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away from 3.

the mower to remove the bag. Dispose of the grass

clippings and reinstall the bag when complete.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the

engine. Remove wire from the spark plug,

thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and

repair damage before restarting and operating.

Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an

indication of damage. The unit should be promptly

inspected and repaired.

Maintenance & Adjustments

If your mower is equipped with ball bearing wheels, 2.

lubricate at least once a season with a light oil, all other

types require no lubrication. However, if the wheels are

removed for any reason, lubricate the surface of the

axle bolt and the inner surface of the wheel with light

automotive oil.

The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at the factory 3.

and does not require lubrication.

Follow the accompanying engine manual for lubrication 4.

schedule and instruction for engine lubrication.

Deck Care

Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to prevent

build-up of grass clippings or other debris. Follow steps below

for this job.

Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn 1.

mower or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.

Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the side 2.

with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.

WARNING: Never tip the mower more than 90º in

any direction and do not leave the mower tipped for

any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part

of the engine causing a starting problem.

3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable

tool. Do not spray with water.

IMPORTANT: Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose

to clean your unit. These may cause damage to bearings,

or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life

and reduce serviceability.

4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If you had

put plastic under the gas cap earlier, make sure to remove it

now.

Maintenance

General Recommendations

Always observe safety rules when performing any 1.

maintenance.

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that 2.

have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from warranty, operator must maintain

the lawn mower as instructed here.

Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine 3.

warranty.

All adjustments should be checked at least once each 4.

season.

Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are 5.

tight.

WARNING: Always stop engine, disconnect spark

plug, and ground against engine before performing

any type of maintenance on your machine.

Lubrication

Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once a 1.

season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely

in both directions. See Fig. 6-1.

Figure 6-1

16 se c t i o n 6— ma i n t e n a n c e & ad j u s t m e n t s

Deck Wash (If Equipped)

Your mower’s deck may be equipped with a water port on its

surface as part of its deck wash system.

Use the deck wash to rinse grass clippings from the deck’s

underside and prevent the buildup of corrosive chemicals.

Complete the following steps AFTER EACH MOWING:

Push the mower to a level, clear spot on your lawn, near 1.

enough for your garden hose to reach.

CAUTION: Make certain the mower’s discharge

chute is directed AWAY from your house, garage,

parked cars, etc.

Thread the hose coupler (packaged with your mower’s 2.

Operator’s Manual) onto the end of your garden hose.

Attach the hose coupler to the water port on your decks 3.

surface. See Fig. 6-2.

Turn the water on.4.

Start the engine as described in the Operation section.5.

Run the engine for a minimum of two minutes, allowing 6.

the underside of the cutting deck to thoroughly rinse.

Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.7.

Turn the water off and detach the hose coupler from the 8.

water port on your deck’s surface.

IMPORTANT : After cleaning your deck, restart the mower. Keep

the engine and blade running for a minimum of two minutes,

allowing the underside of the cutting deck to thoroughly dry.

Engine

Refer to the separate engine manual for engine 1.

maintenance instructions.

Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate engine 2.

manual packed with your unit. Read and follow instructions

carefully.

Under normal conditions service air cleaner as instructed in 3.

the separate engine manual packed with your unit. Clean

every few hours under extremely dusty conditions. Poor

engine performance and flooding usually indicates that the

air cleaner should be serviced.

The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset once 4.

a season. Spark plug replacement is recommended at the

start of each mowing season; check engine manual for

correct plug type and gap specifications.

NOTE: This spark ignition system meets all requirements of the

Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep 5.

the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to

permit proper air circulation which is essential to engine

performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass, dirt

and combustible debris from muffler area.

Figure 6-2

Service

Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of 5.

the blade adapter with light oil. Slide the blade adapter

onto the engine crankshaft. Place the blade on the adapter

such that the side of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with

part number) faces the ground when the mower is in the

operating position. Make sure that the blade is aligned and

seated on the blade adapter flanges.

Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches on the 6.

blade bell support with small holes in blade.

Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in. lbs. 7.

min., 600 in. lbs. max.

To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically check the

blade bolt for correct torque.

Belt Care

NOTE: Several components must be removed in order to change

the mower’s belt. See an authorized Service Dealer to have your

belt replaced.

Off-Season Storage

The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn mower

for storage.

Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in the •

lubrication instructions.

Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to prevent •

rusting.

Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage •

instructions.

Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clen your •

unit.

Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to •

corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.

When storing any type of power equipment in a poorly

ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to

rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or silicone, coat the

equipment, especially cables and all moving parts of your lawn

mower before storage.

Blade Care

WARNING: When removing the cutting blade for

sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with

a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the

blade.

Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especially if you

strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary. Follow the steps

below for blade service.

Disconnect spark plug boot from spark plug. Turn mower 1.

on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor

are facing up.

Remove the bolt which holds the blade and the blade 2.

adapter to the engine crankshaft. See Fig. 7-1.

Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft. See Fig. 7-1.3.

Remove blade from the adapter for testing balance. 4.

Balance the blade on a round shaft screwdriver to check.

Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.

When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of

grind. Grind each cutting edge equally to keep the blade

balanced.

WARNING: An unbalanced blade will cause

excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It

may cause damage to mower and could break

causing personal injury.

Figure 7-1

Blade

Adapter

Bolt

Blade Bell

Support

Troubleshooting

Problem Cause Remedy

Engine Fails to start

Blade control disengaged.1.

Spark plug boot disconnected.2.

Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.3.

Engine not primed (if equipped with primer).4.

Faulty spark plug.5.

Blocked fuel line.6.

Engine flooded.7.

Fuel valve (if equipped) closed.8.

Engine not choked (if equipped with choke).9.

Burnt fuse. (Electric Start Only).10.

Engage blade control.1.

Connect wire to spark boot.2.

Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.3.

Prime engine as instructed in the Operation section.4.

Clean, adjust gap, or replace.5.

Clean fuel line.6.

Wait a few minutes to restart, but do not prime.7.

Open fuel valve. See engine manual.8.

Choke engine. See engine manual.9.

Replace fuse. (See Maintenance Section).10.

Engine runs erratic

Spark plug boot loose.1.

Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.2.

Vent in gas cap plugged.3.

Water or dirt in fuel system.4.

Dirty air cleaner.5.

Unit running with CHOKE applied or in the 6.

“ON” position (if equipped).

Connect and tighten spark plug boot.1.

Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.2.

Clear vent.3.

Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.4.

Refer to engine manual.5.

Put CHOKE in the “OFF” position..6.

Engine overheats

Engine oil level low.1.

Air flow restricted.2.

Fill crankcase with proper oil.1.

Clean area around and on top of engine.2.

Occasional skips

(hesitates) at high speed

Spark plug gap too close.1. Adjust gap to .030”. Refer to engine manual.1.

Idles poorly

Spark plug fouled, faulty, or gap too wide.1.

Dirty air cleaner.2.

Reset gap to .030” or replace spark plug.1.

Refer to engine manual.2.

Excessive Vibration

Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.1.

Bent cutting blade.2.

Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.1.

See an authorized service dealer.2.

Mower will not

mulch grass

Wet grass.1.

Excessively high grass. 2.

Dull blade.3.

Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until later to cut.1.

Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at 2.

desired height or make a narrower cutting path.

Sharpen or replace blade.3.

Uneven cut

Wheels not positioned correctly.1.

Dull blade.2.

Place front and rear wheels in same height position.1.

Sharpen or replace blade.2.

Wheels will not propel

Belt not installed properly. 1.

Debris clogging drive operation.2.

Damaged or worn belt.3.

Checking belt for proper pulley installation and 1.

movement.

Clean out debris.2.

Inspect and replace belt.3.

Replacement Parts

Component Part Number and Description

734-2042A Wheel (Front - 8” x 2.125”, SL:Z)

734-04581 Wheel (Front - 8” x 1.8”, Pin Bar)

734-04063A Wheel (Front - 7”, Star Diamond)

734-04579 Wheel (Front - 8” Int. Drive)

634-04626 Wheel (Rear - 11” x 2.0”, SL:S)

734-04563 Wheel (Rear - 8” x 1.8”, Pin Bar)

734-04568 Wheel (Rear - 8” x 2.125”, SL:Z)

634-04630 Wheel (Rear - 11” x 2”, SL:Z)

731-07486† Discharge Chute

942-0741A Mulching Blade

764-04077A† Grass Bag (Black)

964-04116† Grass Bag (Yardman)

764-04117A† Grass Bag (Troy)

664-04155† Grass Bag (WOP)

954-04259A Belt

† If Equipped

NOTE: Download a complete Parts Manual, refer to customer support on page 2. Be sure to have your model number and serial

number ready. Refer to page 2 for more information regarding locating your model and serial numbers.

4 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

For FOUR YEARS from the date of retail purchase within Canada, MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED will, at its option, repair or

replace, for the original purchaser, free of charge, any part or parts found to be defective in material or workmanship.

This warranty does not cover:

Any part which has become inoperative due to misuse, commercial use, abuse, neglect, accident, improper 1.

maintenance or alteration; or

The unit if it has not been operated and/or maintained in accordance with the owner’s instructions furnished with 2.

the unit; or

The engine or motor or component parts thereof which carry separate warranties from their manufacturers. Please 3.

refer to the applicable manufacturer’s warranty on these items; and read engine warranty statement below, or

Batteries and normal wear parts except as noted below. Log splitter pumps, valves and cylinders or component 4.

parts thereof are covered by a one year warranty; or

Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters, blade sharpening and tune-ups, or adjustments such as brake, 5.

clutch or deck; or

Normal deterioration of the exterior finish due to use or exposure. 6.

Full Ninety Day Warranty on Battery (if equipped): For ninety (90) days from the date of retail purchase, if any battery

included with this unit proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold

a charge, MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED will replace the battery at no charge to the original purchaser.

Additional Limited Thirty Day Warranty on Battery (if equipped): After ninety (90) days but within one hundred

twenty (120) days from the date of purchase, MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED will replace the defective battery, for the original

purchaser, for a cost of one-half (½) of the current retail price of the battery in effect at the date of return.

Full Ninety Days Warranty on Normal Wear Parts: Normal wear parts are defined as belts, blade adaptors, blades,

grass bags, seats, tires, rider deck wheels and clutch parts (friction wheels). These parts are warranted to the original

purchaser to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of retail

purchase.

How to Obtain Service: Warranty service is available, with proof of purchase, through your local authorized service

dealer or distributor. If you do not know the dealer or distributor in your area, please call, toll free 1-800-668-1238. The

return of a complete unit will not be accepted by the factory unless prior written permission has been extended by MTD

PRODUCTS LIMITED.

Transportation Charges: Transportation charges for the movement of any power equipment unit or attachment are the

responsibility of the purchaser. Transportation charges for any part submitted for replacement under this warranty must

be paid by the purchaser unless such return is requested in writing by MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED.

Other Warranties: All other warranties, express or implied, including any implied warranty of merchantability is limited

in its duration to that set forth in this express limited warranty. The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the

sole and exclusive remedy of MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED obligations arising from the sale of its products.

MTD PRODUCTS LIMITED will not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or damage.

4 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ENGINES

This limited warranty doubles the time periods of the engine manufacturer’s limited warranty which is enclosed in the

owner’s information package.

12.08.06

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Bolens 12A-A26M565 Owner's manual

Brand: Bolens

Model: 12A-A26M565

Category: Lawnmowers

Type: Owner's manual

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Bolens 12A-A26M565 Owner's manual

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